Tips to prepare for the real deal
By John Rogers
2007-08-01
It’s time for the real deal: the Beach To Beacon 10th Anniversary. Many runners forget or are too busy to remember that the result of a good race means preparing properly the week before. Here are some tips:
Drink. Stay hydrated all the time. You will feel better and can avoid dehydration, which saps energy. Concentrate on drinking fluids, especially water, several days before the race.
Catch up on sleep. Don't worry about jitters and insomnia the night before a race. If you get good sleep the week before the race, the night before won’t matter. Getting enough sleep helps to keep your body healthy.
Be Positive. During your easy runs, take time to reflect on all the hard work you've done. Let this knowledge bring you a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Visualize yourself running strong and succeeding.
Wear Proper Footwear. Did you really think I wouldn't bring this up? If your shoes have more than 400 - 600 miles on them, or you've had them more than six months, the cushioning properties have greatly diminished. Get a new pair, but break them in before the race.
Don't Start Too Fast. You're tapered, you're ready, you're fired up, the energy of the crowd is exciting and your adrenaline is pumping. All of this can lead to a great race. Don't do what your body is begging to do: take off like an Indy car driver coming out of the pits. Pay attention to your early pace. If you don't feel like you're holding back a little, chances are you're running to fast.
Adjust Your Plan as Needed. Once race day has arrived, you have a goal you hope to accomplish. Unfortunately, last minute factors may hinder this. If it is a really hot day, know your goal time will have to be adjusted. If you have a cold or are recovering from an illness, your time will reflect this. The key to feeling good about your race is to accept that there are variables you cannot control and to let them go.
Have Fun And Enjoy The Day. You have taken on a big challenge and worked hard. Be proud of yourself...have a great race!
Drink. Stay hydrated all the time. You will feel better and can avoid dehydration, which saps energy. Concentrate on drinking fluids, especially water, several days before the race.
Catch up on sleep. Don't worry about jitters and insomnia the night before a race. If you get good sleep the week before the race, the night before won’t matter. Getting enough sleep helps to keep your body healthy.
Be Positive. During your easy runs, take time to reflect on all the hard work you've done. Let this knowledge bring you a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Visualize yourself running strong and succeeding.
Wear Proper Footwear. Did you really think I wouldn't bring this up? If your shoes have more than 400 - 600 miles on them, or you've had them more than six months, the cushioning properties have greatly diminished. Get a new pair, but break them in before the race.
Don't Start Too Fast. You're tapered, you're ready, you're fired up, the energy of the crowd is exciting and your adrenaline is pumping. All of this can lead to a great race. Don't do what your body is begging to do: take off like an Indy car driver coming out of the pits. Pay attention to your early pace. If you don't feel like you're holding back a little, chances are you're running to fast.
Adjust Your Plan as Needed. Once race day has arrived, you have a goal you hope to accomplish. Unfortunately, last minute factors may hinder this. If it is a really hot day, know your goal time will have to be adjusted. If you have a cold or are recovering from an illness, your time will reflect this. The key to feeling good about your race is to accept that there are variables you cannot control and to let them go.
Have Fun And Enjoy The Day. You have taken on a big challenge and worked hard. Be proud of yourself...have a great race!
John Rogers is the owner of Maine Running Company on Forest Ave. in Portland. Send questions or comments to him at jr@mainerunning.com or check out the store’s website at www.mainerunning.com.